Special Olympics Northern California is proud to recognize an outstanding group of individuals and organizations as our 2023 Volunteers of the Year. The Volunteers of the Year were selected after a lengthy nomination process, and exemplify the dedication and love of the more than 21,000 volunteers who support Special Olympics NorCal annually.  

The Volunteers of the Year were honored during the Opening Ceremony of the 2024 Summer Games at Santa Clara University. 

Congratulations and thank you to the 2023 Volunteers of the Year! 

 

Coach Volunteer of the Year 

Chris Gonzales 

Santa Clara County  

Coach Chris Gonzales is a highly dedicated and impactful head coach involved in multiple sports including track and field, softball, flag football, and swimming. His responsibilities include organizing practices, events, and tournaments, and he plays a key role in strategic planning committees and leadership conferences too.  Known for putting in countless volunteer hours, Chris’s contributions includes managing equipment and logistics, attending practices and tournaments for various sports, and leading engagement during the COVID-19 pandemic through virtual sessions and the “Brave in the Attempt” group. 

Chris is lauded for creating a sense of community and fostering teamwork, ensuring that athletes and coaches feel supported, respected, and appreciated. His positive attitude, empathy, and calm demeanor have earned him high regard from parents, athletes, and fellow coaches. He mentors athletes to become coaches and engages with the community through various events and initiatives. Chris’s impact is evident through the numerous accolades he receives, his role in helping athletes build confidence and skills, and his promotion of their success.    

Coach Volunteer of the Year Nominees 

Chris Gonzales, Carl Gayle, Cathi Aurich, Cynthia Jones, Diane Bacon, Jenn Wilson-Marchino, Mike Bandy, Jose Baron, Carolyn Weeks, Brittany Pester, Cara Jane Ford, Curtis Young, Adam Goldberg, Ashley Downs, Bonnie & Ross & Brook Silverman, Christine Costamagna, Christopher Ochoa, Daniel A. Escobar, Danielle Deaver, Debbie Donnahoe, Debi Fox, Denise Caldwell, Eric Bodas, Greg McKinney, Jackie Wheeler, Jason Weatherby, Joanne Larkin, John Drenth, Katherine Hawkins, Lauren Romanazzi, Lisa Tomasello, Lori McNalley, Margaret Viele, Maria Falcon, Mark & Laurie Milton, Matt Haygood, Michelle Story, Mike Inchausti, Pat Diskin, Penny Chandler, Sara Formslag, Scott Ebert, Sharon Scudero, Steve & Jennifer Highland, Susan Criswell, Teresa Cho, Will Horyn 

 

Athlete Volunteer of the Year 

Jason Guillaume 

Sacramento County 

Jason Guillaume has made significant contributions to Special Olympics NorCal in many ways. As part of the Athlete Leadership Program, Jason has honed his public speaking skills, which he uses to advocate for and fundraise for Special Olympics NorCal. Jason actively engages in events like the Law Enforcement Torch Run and has represented Special Olympics NorCal at Capitol Hill Days, effectively communicating about the organization’s impact to government officials. His dedication extends to participating in law enforcement meetings and serving on panels. 

 Jason’s commitment to promoting inclusion is evident through his advocacy, public speaking, and fundraising efforts. His supportive nature shines through in his role in awarding medals at the Sacramento Polar Plunge, and his ongoing support within the Sac County Chargers team. Jason’s dedication, leadership, and enthusiasm make him truly deserving of recognition as the Athlete Volunteer of the Year. 

Athlete Volunteer of the Year Nominees 

Jason Guillaume, Christy Dodge, Dean Logan, Ellen Yao, Jennifer Hall, Katina Aitkens, Ryan Epidendio 

  

Community Group of the Year 

Therapeutic Recreation Services 

Sacramento County 

Therapeutic Recreation Services (TRS) has been an essential program partner for the Sac County Chargers since their inception in 1983. TRS staff members not only handle administrative duties for the Chargers, but also volunteer as coaches for practices and tournaments. Their involvement extends to committees with Special Olympics NorCal, contributing ideas and participating in organizational meetings. TRS supports a large team, serving hundreds of athletes annually, without whom managing the Sac County Chargers would be challenging.  

Beyond their core support, TRS offers additional recreational opportunities such as a Walking Club, softball league, and Bocce club, fostering a love for sports among participants who often join other Special Olympics NorCal teams. Their annual 5K event, aligned with Special Olympics NorCal’s Walking Club training, enhances community involvement and inclusivity, benefiting athletes of all abilities and community members alike. 

Community Group of the Year Nominees 

Therapeutic Recreation Services (TRS), Kiwanis Clubs of Fresno, Kiwanis Club of Clovis, Santa Clara Eagles Golf Team, Shoreline Golf Links, Mountain View CA, Team Davis, Very Inspirational People (VIP), Warriors Academy (Oakland) 

 

Health and Wellness Volunteers of the Year 

Heidi-Pham-Murphy & Chelsey Pham 

Placer & Monterey Counties 

Since 2016, Heidi Pham-Murphy and Chelsey Pham have made an extraordinary impact on the Healthy Athletes program across Northern California. This dynamic duo’s dedication  has been evident in their work at numerous events, including the Summer Games, the Oakland Health Fair, and the Ripon Soccer Regional Competition. 

Heidi and Chelsey have not only led more than 600 screenings, but they’ve also trained more than 200 volunteers across eight events. Their commitment extends beyond the screenings; they actively manage a Facebook page to recruit and update volunteers and engage with colleges and universities to ensure robust student volunteer participation. 

Their can-do attitudes and exceptional service have made their screenings among the most requested, enriching the experiences of athletes, volunteers, and our overall community. 

 

Philanthropy Volunteer of the Year 

Jamie Barrett, Barrett Hofherr

Contra Costa County 

Jamie Barrett, founder and executive creative director at Barrett Hofherr, has made an indelible impact on Special Olympics NorCal through his agency’s pro-bono work and strategic initiatives. His efforts helped secure more than $750,000 in donated media for the “Do Something Special” brand campaign in 2023, encompassing local TV, radio, outdoor billboards, movie theaters, PR, digital, and social media promotion.  

This campaign attracted new young athletes and volunteers to Special Olympics and significantly elevated the perception and awareness of the organization across Northern California. Jamie’s efforts were further recognized with Barrett Hofherr winning a number of awards, including a Silver National Effie Award, six ADDY Awards, led by a Silver National ADDY Award, a Gold Global Indie Award, among others. 

Philanthropy Volunteer of the Year Nominees 

Jamie Barrett & Barrett Hofherr, David Tuttle, Dreyer Babich Buccola Wood Campora (DBBWC), Mike Teske & Flyers Energy, Polly St. Geme, Raley’s, Reese Gebo, Stephen Silver Fine Jewelry, Brandon Tatro & Topgolf San Jose, Dominic Sirianni & Topgolf Roseville, Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation / Cache Creek Casino Resort  

 

Program Support Volunteer of the Year 

Adam Goldberg 

Merced County 

Adam Goldberg, the Area Director for Merced and a dedicated coach, has shown a deep level of commitment to the Special Olympics program. He offered selfless leadership in stepping up when there was a need for an area director, advocating for athletes, and ensuring they have a fun and inclusive sports experience.  

Adam not only coaches and coordinates events, he goes above and beyond by personally funding many program expenses and sacrificing his own resources for the benefit of the athletes. His passion and dedication have been instrumental in developing and expanding Special Olympics in Merced, earning him admiration from athletes, parents, and the community. 

Program Support Volunteer of the Year Nominees 

Adam Goldberg, Brandy Borges, Carol Davidson, Cathy Saderlund, Chuck Buettner, Colleen Wilson, Donna Hollis, Jamie Ensminger, Jenn Wilson-Marchino, Jonathan Ching, Jules Walton, Kenna Wohlford, Pat Diskin, Shirley Surber, Tim Curry, TJ Fetters 

 

Law Enforcement Torch Run Volunteer of the Year 

Sgt. Priscilla Silva 

Alameda County 

Sergeant Priscilla Silva of the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office has been a driving force behind the Law Enforcement Torch Run for many years. In 2023, her leadership helped raise nearly $67,000 for Special Olympics NorCal. She is known for her strong community connections, securing volunteer support from local businesses and colleagues. Priscilla’s passion and dedication are evident in every event she organizes, from Tip-A-Cops to the Torch Run and beyond.  

Her commitment to inclusivity and athlete engagement has made a profound impact, ensuring that each event becomes a celebration of community spirit and support for Special Olympics NorCal. Her efforts have elevated fundraising efforts and strengthened the bond between law enforcement and the Special Olympics community.   

Law Enforcement Torch Run Volunteer of the Year Nominees 

Sergeant Priscilla Silva of the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office, Jennifer Bowman, Jodi Williams, Officer Damian Camarena 

  

Schools Volunteer of the Year 

Hayden Olhiser, Roseville Joint Union High School District 

Placer County 

Hayden Olhiser is the dedicated district coordinator for the Special Olympics Unified Sports Program at Roseville Joint Union High School District (RJUHSD). Her role encompasses organizing and overseeing all Unified Sports activities across the district, including monthly reporting, facilitating meetings, coordinating with teachers, and expanding program participation. Despite not holding an official title, Hayden’s leadership has been instrumental in RJUHSD becoming a model for Unified Sports and inclusion.   

Under her guidance, the district has grown to offer Unified Sports at every school she successfully advocated for a new Unified PE class, aligning it with district standards. Hayden’s passion and commitment have significantly increased program participation, impacting nearly 5,000 students last year alone. She fosters a culture of inclusion, actively engages with school boards, and collaborates regionally to enhance Unified Sports offerings. Hayden’s tireless advocacy and willingness to go above and beyond have elevated RJUHSD’s program, making it a leader in the Sacramento Region and a beacon of inclusive education. 

Schools Volunteer of the Year Nominees 

Hayden Olheiser, Kylie Wheelock-Barrios, Lauren Allard, Michelle Ray, Theresa Bollier 

 

Rookie Volunteer of the Year 

Keagan York 

Santa Clara County 

Keagan York made a significant impact in 2023 as both a Unified Flag Football player and coach. Despite being new to coaching, his deep understanding of the game and commitment to inclusion shone through. He patiently assisted athletes, explaining strategies and ensuring everyone had a chance to participate fully. His team’s success in medaling at the Flag Football Tournament and earning an invitation to the Fall Games highlighted his coaching prowess and leadership on the field. Beyond football, Keagan continued his volunteerism by coaching basketball, where his patience and genuine enjoyment of interacting with athletes were evident to all.  

His maturity, reliability, and respectfulness made him a trusted presence during team travels and competitions, reflecting his dedication to Special Olympics and his brother Sean, who has been involved for years.  

Rookie Volunteer of the Year Nominees 

Keagan York, Christian Santana, Doc Lewis, Hunter Anderson, Jessica Escobar, John Reiss, Logan Lloyd, Magaly De Loza 

Youth Volnteer of the Year 

Kyle Velasco 

Santa Clara County  

Kyle Velasco has shown remarkable dedication and initiative as a student-coach volunteer and Unified partner over the past three years, assisting with track & field, basketball, softball, and flag football. His efforts extend beyond coaching; he attempted to start a Special Olympics Club at Saint Francis High School, and successfully established a Sport Management and Coaching Club focused on athletic philanthropy and Special Olympics NorCal, attracting over 30 students. 

Kyle’s passion for Special Olympics is evident through his leadership and advocacy. As a member of the SFHS Track & Field Leadership Council, he promotes Special Olympics NorCal involvement, facilitates outreach, and supports the volunteer application process. He also secured approval for an adaptive 100M event at a local track meet, and is working to introduce a Special Olympics combined event. 

Youth Volunteer of the Year Nominees 

Kyle Velasco, Adam Tarr, Alexis Fogal, Catherine Chielpegian, Jacob Bushler, Lily Koch, Morgan Blackwell  

Learn about all of our volunteer opportunities  

Athlete Esteban Mercado and Unified Partner Bryce Young represented Special Olympics Northern California and the San Jose Earthquakes at the 9th annual Special Olympics Unified Sports All-Star Game this July in Columbus, Ohio. The game was played prior to the 2024 Major League Soccer All-Star Game. 

“This trip was an unforgettable experience filled with moments of pride, joy, and heartfelt connections,” said Esteban. “Playing in the All-Star game, win or lose, was a dream come true.” 

GAME TIME 

The game, part of Special Olympics and MLS’ season

-long Unified Soccer Exchange program, featured 52 Unified team members representing 26 MLS clubs. Unified Sports brings together athletes (individuals with

 intellectual disabilities) and partners (individuals without intellectual disabilities) to play on the same teams.

“It was fast-paced and physical,” said Esteban. “I was chosen to be in the starting lineup for the West Coast. My coach, Alejandro Enrique Moreno Riera, a Venezuelan former professional footballer and ESPN commentator, guided me. We lost 5-0, but I had three shots at goal! We performed better in the second half, showing our resilience and determination.” 

Moreno was one of the MLS Greats who served as celebrity coaches for the match, which featured the athletes and partners playing in authentic uniforms and equipment from Adidas.  

 

ALL-STAR WEEK 

Esteban and Bryce joined the other Special Olympics MLS representatives for multiple days of fun experiences in Columbus leading up to the Unified Sports All-Star Game on Wednesday afternoon. Activities included an all-service volunteer day with MLS and Target to help with food packaging in the community; attending the MLS All-Star practice and meeting a number of Esteban’s favorite players; a visit to the Columbus Zoo; and more.  

“Attending the All-Star training was an unforgettable experience,” said Esteban. “I met MLS players, got a squad group photo, and was left speechless when I met Riqui Puig from LA Galaxy.” 

 

SPECIAL CONNECTIONS 

Along with a flurry of excitement, the trip offered an opportunity for athletes and partners from across the country to meet one another, bond and create meaningful friendships.  

“Personally, meeting other athletes brought raw tears to my eyes,” said Esteban. “I spent most of my time hanging out with the West Coast team. We watched the Paris Olympics together, bonding over the excitement and inspiration of the games. Connecting with athletes from across the country felt like building a new family.” 

Esteban was able to share his personal story with his teammates, including about the long trip from Modesto to Columbus and the pride

 

he feels for his hometown. He enjoyed meeting all of his fellow Special Olympics representatives and gives special credit to the Unified partners

, who were there as both teammates and support systems for the athletes.  

“The partners play the most challenging role of all,” he said. “Their selfless devotion behind the scenes – organizing luggage, brushing and braiding hair, tying shoes, reminding athletes to take their medication, and ensuring wallets and phones aren’t lost – is remarkable.” 

Esteban is most thankful for his Earthquakes partner, Bryce, who was also his roommate in Columbus.  

“Sharing this experience with Bryce made it even more memorable,” he said. “His support, laughter, and friendship were invaluable throughout the week. I couldn’t have asked for a better roommate and friend.” 

 

LASTING MEMORIES 

After a full week of training, special events, team bonding and the Unified Sports 

All-Star Game itself, Esteban came away thankful for the experience and grateful to his Earthquakes Unified coach for offering him the opportunity.  

“A special thank you to Coach Greg for inviting me to this incredible event,” said Esteban. “His belief in me and his guidance have been instrumental in my journey.” 

Most of all, Esteban will remember seeing his parents in the crowd as a part of the once-in-a-lifetime experience.  

“The highlight of my trip was definitely having my parents fly all the way from California to Ohio to watch my game,” he said. “Seeing them in the stands, their faces beaming with pride as they watched their son with his last name on his jersey and a new pair of cleats, was unforgettable.  

Their unwavering support means the world to me. My mother and dad are my biggest heroes. Their love and sacrifices have shaped who I am today.” 

If you notice a Special Olympics Northern California athlete holding open the back door of a Flyers Energy truck on the road this summer… don’t be worried!

Special Olympics NorCal has partnered with Flyers Energy for a unique promotion to showcase Special Olympics and the “Do Something Special” campaign on six of Flyers Energy’s box trucks.

“We enjoy being an annual partner for Special Olympics Northern California and the ‘Do Something Special’ campaign really touched a lot of us at Flyers,” said Mike Teske, Director of Engineering Operations and Technology at Flyers Energy. “It was something that we wanted to be a part of in a bigger way. So we decided to go ahead and add some branding to the back of our trucks in order to showcase that. We’re really excited about it.”

Sharing in that excitement was Special Olympics NorCal Athlete Leader Jeff, who is pictured on the back of the truck. Jeff had the opportunity to visit the Flyers warehouse and see his personalized truck, take some photos with employees, interview Mike for The Special Report and even take a quick ride in the truck.

“It was cool. It was fun to be with Flyers and see my truck,” said Jeff.

The promotion is a part of Flyers Energy’s 29-year partnership with Special Olympics Northern California that has included numerous fundraisers, employee volunteer opportunities, and even the annual Polar Plunge.

“Special Olympics, for Flyers, has been a huge part of the business,” said Mike. “It’s something our employees really get behind. They enjoy volunteering and interacting with the athletes. It’s a lot of fun.”

Cameron Jordan of Napa is showcasing Special Olympics NorCal on his car in a unique opportunity as a part of the Toyota Gazoo Racing North America GR Cup eSports League.

The GR Cup eSports League showcases 40 of the top simracers competing in seven races through September 21.  The races are broadcast live on the GT World YouTube channel and SRO Motorsports Twitch, where viewers can see Cameron’s one-of-a-kind Special Olympics NorCal car.

“To put it simply, I wouldn’t be the same person without Special Olympics,” said Cameron. “It has shaped my life in a positive manner since the day of my birth (literally, some of our athletes in Napa recall pushing me in a stroller at opening ceremonies). I felt representing Special Olympics Northern California was the least I could do for an organization that has shaped my life, and likely millions of lives everywhere.”

Cameron is a student at Napa Valley College and works at a nonprofit organization that specializes in providing job skills, searches and coaching to people with intellectual disabilities. He was introduced to Special Olympics at a young age through his mother, Suzy Jordan, who is a coach and the Area Director for Napa County.

While interested in racing his whole life, Cameron began taking simracing seriously the past few years and hopes to translate his virtual skillset into a physical track in the future. He plans to attend Skip Barber Racing School to earn a racing competition license and will be interning with the United States Touring Car Championship social media team for the 2024 season.

Cheer on Cameron and his Special Olympics NorCal car in upcoming races by visiting the GT World YouTube channel and SRO Motorsports Twitch!

April 27: Sebring International Raceway

May 11: Circuit of The Americas

July 13: Virginia International Raceway

August 10: Road America

August 31: Barber Motorsports Park

September 21: Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Athlete Leaders and staff from Special Olympics Northern California and Special Olympics Southern California came together for a joint advocacy trip to Sacramento from Monday, March 11, to Wednesday, March 13.

The annual trip is a fun and engaging way for Special Olympics California to meet with government officials to thank them for their support and share our stories of impact. The State of California currently provides funding assistance for Special Olympics programs in the State Budget.

Eight NorCal Athlete Leaders – most of whom experienced the Capitol events for the first time – joined a group from Southern California for three days of activations. NorCal and SoCal Athlete Leaders, joined by staff members and sometimes parents or guardians, participated in more than 55 meetings with assemblymembers and senators. Special Olympics was also honored during Floor Sessions for the Assembly and Senate, and the group was able to meet and take photos with Governor Gavin Newsom on the last day of the trip.

Special Olympics also hosted an Inclusion Reception at the California Museum on Tuesday evening. The event featured remarks from Assemblymember Tim Grayson, Assemblymember Tom Lackey, Special Olympics NorCal President & CEO David Solo, Special Olympics SoCal President & CEO Kelly Pond, and NorCal Athlete Leader Amanda, who recited an original poem:

Celebrating Inclusion

Today we celebrate inclusion at the State Capitol.

Sacramento, California, has never felt more empowered to shower Special Olympics athletes with love.  We go above the stereotype to dismantle the limits. Let our voices be loud and proud. Nothing will stop us from gaining equality.

Yes, we will be free. Free from oppression and limitation. With our voices we will end discrimination.  Local leaders please hear our cheers. We will never end our call.

We are celebrating inclusion.

 

VIEW PHOTOS

Special Olympics NorCal Athlete Leaders joined staff and chaperones to travel to Washington D.C. in early February as a part of #SOHillDay. The annual advocacy effort brings together delegates from across the country to meet with their respective Members of Congress at the Capitol, share the impacts of Special Olympics, and ask for continued federal funding in Schools and Health.

Special Olympics NorCal’s delegation included Athlete Leaders Jennifer and Cristhian; Cristhian’s mother; staff members Paul and Ilisa; and Athlete Leader Evan, who attended last year and was asked to assist Special Olympics International’s Government Relations team.

The three-day trip was packed with activities, including 17 meetings with Congressional offices, tours of the U.S. Capitol, witnessing the House in session from the gallery, seeing the White House, socializing with athletes from across the U.S., visiting museums, meeting Special Olympics Chair Tim Shriver, and sampling some great D.C. restaurants.  

“My experience in Washington D.C. was amazing because it was my first time going to the East Coast and my first time at Capitol Hill Day in person,” said Cristhian. “My favorite parts were going to museums, trying their food, and meeting Tim Shriver for the first time. For me, it means helping people and representing the Hispanic community that speak Spanish.”

“It was amazing and the best experience,” said Jennifer. “My favorite parts were getting to talk with Congress and I got to meet Miss America.”

View photos and ask your elected officials to continue supporting Special Olympics at bit.ly/SupportSOHillDay24.

Matthew Freeman has danced with a legend.

The Santa Cruz-area athlete has been involved with Special Olympics in California for more than 50 years and has compiled an incredible 456 medals. Yet his favorite memory isn’t from on the field or the court.

“I danced with Eunice Kennedy Shriver,” Matthew said, reminiscing about the time he met the Special Olympics founder. “I got to meet all the movie stars down there and I got to meet Eunice personally.”

Matthew is referring to the Special Olympics California Summer Games held at the UCLA campus in 1990, when Special Olympics Northern California and Special Olympics Southern California were still combined into one large chapter. Special Olympics founder Eunice Kennedy Shriver visited the Games and met a younger Matthew, who still cherishes the moment today.

More than 30 years later, Matthew has competed in eight different sports and also serves as a volunteer coach for Special Olympics. He participates in the Torch Run and recently became an Athlete Leader to help bring new athletes into the program. He says that Special Olympics has not only changed his life, but also the lives of his family, including his niece who became a Special Olympics coach.

Matthew’s Special Olympics journey has been packed full of memories and life lessons – and what’s most important to him is passing that knowledge on to younger athletes.

“I get to pass my experience on to new athletes,” he said. “That’s what ‘Special’ means to me.”

 

We’re excited to announce that Central East High School has received National Banner Recognition from Special Olympics North America as an ESPN Honor Roll school! Central East is a part of the Central Unified School District in Fresno, Calif.

The national recognition is awarded to schools that demonstrate an inclusive campus climate and exude a sense of collaboration, engagement and respect for all members of the student body and staff. Unified Champion Schools receiving national banner recognition are committed to inclusion and meet 10 national standards of excellence. These standards were developed by a panel of leaders from Special Olympics and the education community. School applications go through a two-stage review process, first by state Program staff and then by a national certifying body of key educational leaders.

An inclusive school climate that fosters understanding and respect for all can influence how students think and act – not only within school hours, but beyond the campus as well! These positive actions can
effectively ignite change in neighborhoods and communities.

We congratulate Central East High School on this much-deserved national recognition! They unveiled their banner during a celebration in December 2023 which included guest speakers, a Unified volleyball game and more. Check out their announcement via ESPN.

Special Olympics Northern California hosted a multi-state West Coast Health Messenger Conference during July 2023 in Oakland.

Athletes and mentors from Special Olympics NorCal, Special Olympics Southern California, Special Olympics Nevada, Special Olympics Alaska and Special Olympics Idaho gathered for a weekend of training and fun activities. Classes included health disparities and communication, fitness, nutrition, gameday mindsets and self-advocacy. Athletes and mentors also enjoyed social activities including a trip to San Francisco’s Pier 39 and a basketball skills session at the former practice facility for the Golden State Warriors.

“I want to make sure everyone understands that being healthy is important – in life and in sports,” said Justin V., a Health Messenger from NorCal.

Health Messengers are Special Olympics Athlete Leaders who are trained to promote healthy habits to their teammates and work with providers and students to bring awareness to care disparities in the healthcare system. Congrats to our new Health Messengers!